Born

June 1966 in Carlisle, grew up in Northumberland.

When and why did you start playing?
Started playing the violin at age 5 & continued until I was 18, but then thought "this isn't loud enough", so I picked up the nearest thing with 4 strings, the bass. First bass was a black Rickenbacker 4001, which I since sold. Boo!

Which instruments do you play?
Bass mainly, but also violin & mandolin if pushed.

What was the first tune(s) you learned?
On bass, Hold the Line by Toto, with the first band I was in, Stagefright.

Which famous musicians do you admire? Why?
All sorts - Steve Howe for his amazing technique, JJ Burnel for his sound, Chris Squire for his musicality & height, Geddy Lee for just about everything. Lemmy for his legs. Ritchie, of course, Mssrs Simper, Glover & Hughes. Far too many more to mention.

Which famous musicians have you learned from?
Just from listening to anyone you learn something. Glenn Hughes - what you don't play is just as important as what you do.

Describe your first instrument.
1979 Rickenbacker 4001, black. Very nice, although I must admit I've never got on with Rickys (I've owned three but sold them all). I had no idea how to set basses up then, so the string height etc was awful. But it made noise!

What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighbourhood or town?
Loads! My first gig (Thin Lizzy, Newcastle City Hall, 1982). Seeing Micky Moody play in a pub in Brentford (the Red Lion, in around 1988, now sadly gone). Tool at Hammersmith. AC/DC at Milton Keynes. Steely Dan at Wembley! And of course playing with 24CP.

Who are your favourite musicians? Groups? CD's?
The Stranglers have always been my first love, then Black Sabbath & Deep Purple. Nowadays I'm into all sorts - Tool, Deftones, all sorts of nu-metal. And the Carpenters. All sorts. Favourite CD of all time is Tangerine Dream - Logos Live at the Dominion. Don't laugh - try it LOUD!!!

How do you handle mistakes during a performance? 
I look over at Garry 'cos it's usually him who makes them! No, seriously - just look as if you meant it!

Do you get nervous before a performance?
No, not really. I do concentrate a lot, though, so people talking to me never get an answer!